December 16

Cy Leslie (1922–2008) was an American record producer and music entrepreneur best known for founding Pickwick Records in 1950. Under his leadership, Pickwick became a leading budget label, reissuing popular recordings at affordable prices. Leslie pioneered mail-order albums and subscription-based music clubs that expanded consumer access to a variety of genres. He acquired rights to classic recordings and packaged them in budget compilations, selling millions of copies worldwide. Born Seymour 'Cy' Leslie, he started in radio before venturing into the record business, marrying technical know-how with marketing genius. His innovations influenced the modern music industry’s distribution and pricing strategies.

Alexander Lebedev is a Russian entrepreneur and former KGB operative who built a banking and media empire. He acquired leading European newspapers, including the London Evening Standard and The Independent. Lebedev has been an outspoken critic of the Russian government and a member of the State Duma. His business ventures span banking, energy, and aviation, reflecting his diverse interests and risk-taking nature. Through philanthropy and public engagements, he has influenced European journalism and Russo-European relations.